In the world of American football, the Green Bay Packers have recently made an intriguing move by signing undrafted free agent Josh Gesky, an offensive guard from Illinois. This addition has sparked curiosity and raised questions about Gesky's potential to make the team's 53-man roster. Let's dive into the details and explore the fascinating aspects of this signing.
The Background
Gesky, a native of Manteno, Illinois, comes from a football-loving family. His father, Joel, played on the offensive line for Nebraska, setting a strong foundation for Josh's journey. Despite receiving offers from prestigious Ivy League institutions, Gesky chose to stay closer to home and compete at a higher level, committing to Illinois.
Athletic Profile and Performance
Standing at 6'5" and weighing around 308 pounds, Gesky possesses an impressive athletic build. His Relative Athletic Score (RAS) of 9.61 out of 10 at the guard position is a testament to his speed, explosion, and overall athleticism. However, his agility scores are a bit of a concern, ranking in the lower percentiles.
On the field, Gesky's performance improved each season as a starter. His pass protection grade increased from 57.2 to 73.4, and his run block grades followed a similar upward trajectory. In his final season, he allowed only seven pressures, four hits, and one sack in 456 pass block snaps, showcasing his potential as a reliable guard.
The Tape Analysis
Watching Gesky's game tapes, one can't help but notice his unique play style. While he may not appear to be a freakish athlete, his athleticism and movement abilities are evident. He has the quickness to reach his landmarks, navigate to the second level, and execute screen plays effectively.
Gesky's thick and sturdy build gives him an advantage, allowing him to generate torque and display impressive power. He has a mauling style, wrestling defenders with his upper body. His base is firm, and he rarely loses control or gets knocked off balance. This stability enables him to slow down opponents' momentum towards the backfield, even when they manage to get past his initial block.
In the run game, Gesky's ability to latch onto defenders and maneuver them is a significant strength. He maintains a firm grip on his opponents, preventing them from shedding his blocks. His technique of keeping his hands inside reduces the risk of holding penalties, and his aiming points are consistently accurate.
However, Gesky's pad level is a notable weakness. He often plays with a high pad level, which affects his leverage and leads to stalemates in the run game and giving up ground in pass protection. Additionally, his lack of agility becomes apparent at times, especially when he needs to redirect or react to late twists and stunts.
Competing for a Roster Spot
Gesky's signing raises the question: Can he sneak onto the 53-man roster? With his talent and potential, it's certainly possible. His athletic profile, improving performance, and unique play style make him an intriguing prospect. While he has some physical limitations and coachable issues, most of his weaknesses can be addressed with proper guidance and development.
Final Thoughts
The Packers' decision to sign Gesky adds an exciting element to their offensive line competition. Personally, I think Gesky has the talent and potential to make a strong case for himself during training camp. His ability to maul defenders and sustain blocks is a valuable asset, and with some refinement of his technique, he could become a solid NFL starter. It will be fascinating to see how Gesky's journey unfolds and whether he can secure a spot on the Packers' roster.
